By Peter.
In a passionate call to action, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has ramped up awareness efforts in Ogun State, encouraging families to leverage President Bola Tinubu’s flagship education initiative to secure brighter futures for their children. Speaking at a sensitization event in Ijebu Ife, Ijebu East Local Government Area, on Friday, NELFUND’s Managing Director Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr revealed that the scheme has already disbursed N116 billion in tuition fees and stipends since its launch—empowering over 624,000 students nationwide.
This outreach comes amid surging demand, with NELFUND announcing over one million loan applications in less than 18 months, underscoring the program’s growing trust and impact under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Key Highlights from the Ogun Sensitization Drive
- Event Focus: Held on November 7, 2025, the program targeted parents, guardians, and community leaders to demystify the loan process and counter misinformation.
- Sawyerr’s Message: “President Tinubu understands the power of education—it’s the foundation of progress, not skin color or privilege,” Sawyerr emphasized. He urged: “No child should stay home due to fees. We’ve disbursed N116bn so far—spread the word, apply today!”
- Tinubu’s Vision: The initiative ensures “no Nigerian is denied tertiary access due to finances,” covering universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
Dispelling Myths: No Collateral, Flexible Repayments
Addressing common concerns, NELFUND’s Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Dr. Frederick Akinfala, debunked viral rumors:
- No Certificate Seizure: “It’s an outright falsehood—beneficiaries keep their degrees post-graduation.”
- Guarantor-Free: Loans require no collateral or sureties.
- Repayment Terms: Starts two years after graduation at 10% of salary. Unemployed? Simply notify NELFUND for deferral—no penalties.
- Added Perks: Beyond tuition, students receive a N20,000 monthly stipend for upkeep.
“Sufficient funds are available—President Tinubu built this to ease burdens, not punish,” Akinfala assured, calling on Ogun indigenes to act now.
Local Support: Ijebu East Steps Up
Chairman of Ijebu East LGA, Dr. Dare Kehinde, hailed the scheme as a “foresightful leap for education equity.” His administration pledged a dedicated support center to help students with applications and registrations, ensuring seamless access for Ogun’s youth.
NELFUND’s National Triumph: 1M+ Applications, N116bn Impact
Launched on May 24, 2024, the program has transformed access to higher education:
- Applications Surge: Over 1 million verified, with the portal extended for 2024/2025 to capture more.
- Disbursement Breakdown: N116bn (or N116.4bn per latest reports) to 624,535 beneficiaries, including institutional fees and stipends.
- Inclusivity: Open to all Nigerians—regardless of faith, tribe, or background—fostering national unity through education.
Director of Strategic Communications Oseyemi Oluwatuyi called it a “defining moment,” proving government interventions can be “authentic, effective, and transformative.”
Why It Matters for Ogun and Nigeria
Ogun State, home to institutions like Olabisi Onabanjo University (which received early disbursements), stands to benefit immensely. With youth unemployment and education gaps persisting, NELFUND bridges the divide—turning dreams into degrees without debt traps.
| Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | May 24, 2024 |
| Total Applications | Over 1 million |
| Disbursed Amount | N116bn (tuition + stipends) |
| Beneficiaries | 624,535 students |
| Monthly Stipend | N20,000 per student |
| Repayment Start | 2 years post-graduation (10% salary) |
Ready to apply? Visit NELFUND’s portal or contact via [email protected]. Follow @nelfund on X/Instagram for updates. As Sawyerr put it: Education is Nigeria’s leap forward—don’t miss the jump!
#NELFUND #EducationForAll #OgunDecides #TinubuAgenda
